What you can try is to change the compatibility mode of the .exe. Right click on it, Properties, Compatibility, change it to Windows XP service pack 2. I had problems running CAD programs and games on vista and most of them works if i do that.

I used the Gamespot download manager...

Oblivion is for sur a beautiful game in terms of graphics. But personaly I thing you will be disappointed by this game if you're used to playing older games with awesome stories. I can't believe a RPG that let you finish the game at level 6...

I agree that Windows Vista is shi* . I got it for free and uninstalled it for XP because I got tired of compatibility issues and poor performance compared to XP.

If by Final Fantasy saga you mean turn based RPG, you won't find much on PC unless you get a SNES emulator. The best RPGs as been released on that console.

-Chrono Trigger, also followed by Chrono Cross on Playstation

-Breath of fire I and II followed III and IV i think, also on playstation

-Secret of Mana

-Lufia I and II

If you haven't played it yet, I recommend Final Fantasy II (IV in USA) which is in my opinion one of the best game ever made. Just as good as Final Fantasy VII which is THE best game I personaly played.

If it's not that type of RPG you're looking for, Diablo II is a standard. Otherwise, look for Baldur's Gate series, Dungeon Siege, Neverwinter nights.... the list goes on forever.